Environment submissions database

The University adopted a pragmatic approach to implementing the REF2021 Code of Practice during the Covid-19 pandemic. The senior management considered three factors: 1) The census date, 31st July 2020, for identifying Category A staff FTE would remain unchanged. 2) At the beginning of the national ‘lockdown’, March 2020, a substantial amount of preparation had already been completed for the REF2021 submission. 3) The risks to the well-being of Category A staff on teaching and research contacts when making new or revised demands in relation to outputs and changing internal deadlines. It was decided to follow the published time scales in the CoP. The Selection Panel, Appeals procedure, Recommendation Panel, Research Committee and Academic Board timetables continued. This was to give the internal submission process some stability and security in uncertain times. The Selection Panel met on 10-11 June 2020 and it was discerned that there was a healthy pool of outputs for both UoA32 and UoA33 (the two UoAs that would make up the University’s submission). At this point it was decided that submitting staff would not be asked additional information about their outputs to diminish the additional burden on staff time. When the results of the REF 6 Reduction Requests were communicated on 15 September 2020 the Recommendation Panel (17-18 September 2020) was able to ensure the correct number of outputs were available for submission based on the FTE on the census date and the results of the reduction request. As an Arts University some of the planned impact activities based on community drawing and music performance were unable to take place. 6 out of the 8 required impact case studies had already been completed. The two affected impact case study writers were able to supply robust impact case studies. This is the first REF submission made by the University so it is hoped that impact will be developed more fully during the next REF cycle. Researchers have worked on maintaining the relationships with their beneficiaries throughout the pandemic with the aim of growing meaningful impact in future years. There is some concern that the momentum in developing a University research culture over the last seven years may falter due to the Covid-19 pandemic. To mediate against this the University has maintained its Annual Research Proposal process and its research inductions for new academic staff. Plans to work with a PhD validating partner to support research degrees in the future have continued. This process will enable the University to further develop its research infrastructure. The University has a history of delivering positive operating cashflows and surpluses. With a solid balance sheet and good cash reserves the University is able to manage financial risks and still be able to support research. The full impact of Covid-19 is not yet fully known but the University has good financial management and has undertaken scenario planning in considering the potential financial effects from the pandemic. Leeds Arts University is confident that that it has adequate resources to continue and remains financially sustainable.